Statement from OREA CEO Tim Hudak on repeal of the Green Energy Act

TORONTO, ON, September 20, 2018 –“The Ontario Government’s decision to repeal the Green Energy Act has saved home owners thousands of dollars, by putting the brakes on a program that would have forced Ontario home sellers to conduct a mandatory home energy audit before selling their home. This program threatened to put consumers at risk with no set standards to protect senior citizens or other homeowners from unscrupulous operators who could pressure them into unneeded repairs. Seniors and low income families rely on the hard earned equity in their homes – a low energy score on their home would have cost them thousands of dollars in precious retirement savings, with little or no discernable benefit to the environment.

The previous government was consulting with the industry to introduce the program in 2018. Ontario Realtors fought hard against this program, and we are pleased to see that the Province has tabled legislation to repeal the Green Energy Act. Going forward, Ontario Realtors are eager to partner with the Ford Government to make housing more affordable for families across our province.”

-30-

The Ontario Real Estate Association represents 70,000 brokers and salespeople who are members of the 38 real estate boards throughout the province. OREA serves its REALTOR® members through a wide variety of professional publications, educational programs, advocacy, and other services.